Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)
Raptor Center HPAI patients
We will routinely update our data to show avian influenza test results and positive cases by species
As of May 12, 2025, The Raptor Center has tested over 3,788 individuals on admission for avian influenza virus, with 225 confirmed positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza, and 27 individuals preliminarily testing positive for avian influenza with confirmatory testing still pending. Our most recent preliminary positive test was March 29, 2025.
The issue
Avian influenza is caused by a virus that has several strains, some of which are more dangerous than others. Avian Influenza (AI) is normally found in migratory waterfowl (swans, geese, ducks, etc). These birds can carry AI without getting sick. As they migrate, they spread the disease to other bird species as well as within their own colony.
The current strain being transmitted is a highly pathogenic form of the H5N1 strain, which has global agriculture trade impacts for the United States and can have severe impacts on susceptible birds of many species. While waterfowl can carry and shed this virus without any symptoms, birds like domestic chickens and raptors get severe illness and rapidly die. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza is spread in the feces and respiratory secretions of infected birds and can be easily transmitted on objects contaminated with virus particles. The virus is tough and can survive cold and freezing temperatures, as well as survive in aquatic environments.
What TRC is doing
Beyond putting together our resource page and webinar for those working with wildlife and birds, we're also closely monitoring our local wildlife populations for positive cases of avian influenza, and working with other organizations to better understand the current outbreak and help guide the response.
Funding for this project was provided by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR). The Trust Fund is a permanent fund constitutionally established by the citizens of Minnesota to assist in the protection, conservation, preservation, and enhancement of the state’s air, water, land, fish, wildlife, and other natural resources. Currently 40% of net Minnesota State Lottery proceeds are dedicated to growing the Trust Fund and ensuring future benefits for Minnesota’s environment and natural resources.